You know a teleserye is serendipity at its finest when things happen in perfect timing. The team of upcoming Kapamilya series FPJ’s Batang Quiapo led by actor-director Coco Martin feels blessed on their first taping day coinciding with the actual celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene, which Quiapo is known for.
Coco and the production team arrived at around 4 am and started the day with a prayer. They wore maroon tops with an image of the religious icon and participated in the prayer and worship activities, and filmed scenes for their upcoming series.
The group joined the flock of Filipino faithful wiping their cloth and handkerchiefs at the statue of the Black Nazarene. They heard the mass outside since the church was already packed with other believers.
As related activities took place, the team dispersed to cover important scenes using handheld cameras. Coco can be seen working with cinematographer Hermann Claravall to decide on the position and framing for each shot. He was also with co-director Malu Sevilla and assistant directors Kevin de Vels and Vince Gaite.
As in every project Coco takes on, he inspires the crew with his hard work and resilience. Direk Kevin shared, “Itong Batang Quiapo, kita n’yo naman, live ‘yung mga ginagawa naming set. Kung saan ‘yung tao, doon kami nakadikit. Kung saan ‘yung location, talagang doon ako nagpupunta."
Filming such big scenes in these times can be a tough grind. But it was surprisingly a breeze for Coco and the off-cam unit of FPJ’s Batang Quiapo. He mentioned that everything was well-coordinated. “Nakakatuwa rin kasi ang ayos ngayon. Wala mang prusisyon, may misa lang pero maayos lahat. Nakakatuwa kasi lahat ng tao nakikipag-coordinate kaya walang gulo, walang nasasaktan.”
“Sobrang thankful and blessed kami sa first day ng Batang Quiapo,” he smiled.
The teleserye also stars Christopher de Leon, Lito Lapid, Cherry Pie Picache, John Estrada, Charo Santos, and Lovi Poe as Coco’s leading lady. Joining them are Susan Africa, Tommy Abuel, Allan Paule, Mark Lapid, and Ronwaldo Martin.